An update on the novel, Orbiting Odds.

This is going to be one of many examples how detailed these stories are.

For an example there is a strange creature usually seen at the border between Ash Peak and the city of Odds. As the story unfolds, it'll play a crucial role for the reader to understand why these cities are now divided. Including Lush Plains.

Let's took a closer look at this creature once believed to be an ordinary bird, you all are familiar with. Their drastic change will be important to piece together the puzzle as the story unfolds.

The Ash Strider: Legends of the Ash Peak

The Ash Strider, a colossal avian predator, stalks the unforgiving terrain of the Ash Peak mountains. Mutated by unknown chemicals, these creatures are both majestic and terrifying, forever intertwined with the lives of the Ash Peak people.

History and Insight:

• Origin Unknown: The Ash Striders' origins are shrouded in mystery. Legends speak of a time before the Ash Peak erupted, when these creatures were smaller, flightless birds. The mutation that transformed them is attributed to the potent chemicals released during the eruption.

• Adaptability: Over generations, the Ash Striders have adapted to the harsh environment. Their powerful legs allow them to traverse treacherous mountain slopes, and their keen senses help them locate prey in the desolate landscape.

Behavior:

• Solitary (Mostly): Ash Striders are primarily solitary creatures, except during breeding season when they form temporary groups. Older Ash Striders might lead these groups, passing down knowledge about migration routes and nesting grounds.

• Predatory Instinct: Ash Striders are apex predators, utilizing their size, strength, and sharp talons to hunt various creatures in the Ash Peak ecosystem. Their mutation has enhanced their senses and may even grant them a limited echolocation ability for hunting in low-light conditions.

• Quick Learners: Despite their shorter lifespan, Ash Striders are fast learners. They can quickly grasp survival skills and migration patterns from older generations.

Physical Description:

• Size: While still formidable, Ash Striders are more streamlined than originally described. They stand roughly 6-8 feet tall at the shoulder, with a wingspan reaching up to 20-25 feet.

• Lifespan: With a lifespan of about 6 years, Ash Striders prioritize breeding and survival within their limited time.

• Weight: These massive creatures can weigh up to 1,500 pounds, a testament to their power and size.

Mutations:

• Wattles: A prominent feature is the fleshy wattle dangling from their necks. These wattles are typically brown but can sometimes appear purple, reflecting a higher concentration of the chemical mutation in some individuals. The wattles at times used for communication, , or a predatory delivery Mechanism: Wattle Spray:  The chemical mutation could caused the wattles to develop glands that produce a paralyzing or joint-stiffening fluid. When threatened or attacking, the Ash Strider could inflate its wattles and then rapidly deflate them, creating a forceful spray that mists the area with the debilitating fluid. This would target the eyes and respiratory system of prey, causing them to stiffen and become easy targets.

• Echolocation (Possible): The exact nature of the mutation is not fully understood. Some believe it may enhance their senses, granting them a form of echolocation for navigating and hunting in low-visibility conditions.

Established Territories (Loose):

• Range: Ash Striders have a vast roaming range, following established migration routes across the Ash Peak region.

• Competition: While they don't actively defend specific territories, competition for nesting sites and resources can lead to confrontations between Ash Striders.

Rare Variant:

• Black Feathers: A rare variant boasts striking black feathers instead of the usual shades of grey and brown. These individuals also possess bright yellow exposed neck skin and wattles.

• Aggressive Nature: The black and yellow variant is known for its aggressive behavior. Their bold coloration might serve as a warning, and their black feathers offer less camouflage, making them easier to spot from a distance.

Predatory Prowess:

• Silent Stalkers: Despite their size, Ash Striders can move with surprising stealth, using the rocky terrain to their advantage. Their keen eyesight and hearing allow them to detect prey from afar.

• Swift Attacks: When attacking, Ash Striders use their powerful legs to close the distance quickly, overwhelming prey with their size and strength. Their sharp talons can inflict devastating wounds.

Voice and Sounds:

• Gronk: A deep, guttural bellow used as a warning call or threat display. This sound echoes through the mountains, sending shivers down the spines of those who hear it.

• Kree-Ook: A high-pitched, bird-like call with various uses. It could be a distress call, a territorial warning, or a communication method between Ash Striders.

Colors:

• Feathers: The Ash Strider's primary feathers are various shades of grey, brown, and white, providing excellent camouflage in the Ash Peak environment.

• Eyes: Their eyes are a piercing yellow, reflecting their keen eyesight and predatory nature.

The BoonStone Connection:

• Forced Low Posture: Stepping on a BoonStone and needing to remove it forces a crouched position. This unintentionally lowers a person's profile, making them less visible to an Ash Strider's limited downward vision.

• Increased Awareness: In this crouched position, people are more likely to hear the Ash Strider's approaching footsteps or the telltale "Gronk"

The BoonStone is an important object in the story, another crucial part of the narrative.